The primary purposes of Hanging Bog Wildlife Management Area (WMA) are for wildlife management, wildlife habitat management, and wildlife-dependent recreation. This is a 4,560 acre area made up of rolling hills, extensive forests lands, small fields, and marshes. The area is named for the large man-made bog on the property, which was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the late 1930s.

The federal government became interested in the area in the 1930s. Under the Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act, the U.S. Department of Agriculture acquired the area and managed it as a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp. After 1940, the federal government leased the land to the state as a game management area. The land remained under federal government control until 1962 when title to this property was deeded to the State of New York. Also, additional acreage was acquired under the Park and Recreation Land Acquisition Act. The majority of the property was for game management, the remainder went to the Division of Lands and Forests.

Individuals with disabilities can apply for a Motorized Access Permit for People With Disabilities (MAPPWD) to use a motor vehicle on designated roads. One trail is available for ATV use for people with disabilities located off the Briggs Road parking area. Contact the regional office at the number listed above to obtain a permit.

NOTE: Ticks are active whenever temperatures are above freezing, but especially so in the late spring and early fall. Deer ticks can transmit Lyme and several other diseases. More information on deer ticks and Lyme disease can be obtained from the NYS Department of Health (leaves DEC website).

How We Manage Hanging Bog Wildlife Management Area

Like most of the state's Wildlife Management Areas, Hanging Bog is managed by DEC's Division of Fish and Wildlife for wildlife conservation and wildlife-associated recreation (hunting, trapping, wildlife viewing, and photography). Funding to maintain and manage this site is provided by the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration or "Pittman-Robertson" Act, which is acquired through excise taxes on sporting arms, ammunition and archery equipment.

Since, 1948, management practices have included conifer plantation establishment, thinning of plantations, selective and clear-cutting of hardwoods, leasing of croplands, planting wildlife shrubs and developing small marshes, ponds and potholes. All of these practices provide nesting, feeding and cover habitat for wildlife. Also, in 1951 a conservation camp was built, later becoming the Rushford Conservation Education Camp. Hanging Bog is a man made impoundment built by the CCC in the late 1930's. The 'Bog' is located on portions of the Hanging Bog WMA and the Crab Hollow State Forest. It is characterized by a floating mat of vegetation in the middle of the impoundment.

Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities & Other Information

Web links below can provide information about other recreation, attractions, and amenities in this area.

State Lands and Facilities

Numerous guide books and maps are available with information on the lands, waters, trails, and other recreational facilities in this area. These can be purchased at most outdoor equipment retailers, bookstores, and on-line booksellers.

Additional information, outdoor equipment, trip suggestions, and guided or self-guided tours may be obtained from outdoor guide and outfitting businesses. Check area chambers of commerce, telephone directories, or search the internet for listings.

Consider hiring an outdoor guide if you have little experience or woodland skills. See the NYS Outdoor Guides Association (Leaves DEC website) for information on outdoor guides.